As surgeons, we are familiar with the classic mortality/morbidity conference in which the causes of a less-than-ideal outcome are dissected and reviewed. The process is educational to be sure, but on occasion, it also allows for "out-of-the-box" thinking directed toward innovative operative techniques or methods for earlier recognition of problems. This spirit of discovery has been quite common at Cedars-Sinai, where many of the modern, paradigm-shifting, minimally invasive surgical techniques were developed in general surgery, thoracic surgery and orthopedics.

Cedars-Sinai marked its transition to a degree-granting institution June 11 by awarding doctorates to seven students in its Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences and Translational Medicine. More than 140 faculty members in academic regalia, along with Cedars-Sinai’s top leaders, joined graduates, family members and friends in a festive inaugural commencement in Harvey Morse Auditorium.

The Advanced Health Sciences Pavilion opened to its first patients on Tuesday, and the 11-story, state-of-the-art facility didn't fail to impress. Neurology patient Girish Mody summed up his initial impression of the AHSP as "wow."

Debra Hambleton left Cedars-Sinai recently with a new right hip – and the honor of being the first patient to undergo surgery in the Advanced Health Sciences Pavilion. Hambleton, who lives in Oxnard, had her right hip replaced on Friday, June 21, in Operating Room 7, on the fifth level of the Pavilion in the Sue and Bill Gross Surgery and Procedure Center.

Many practitioners consult podiatrists to fix a bunion, straighten a crooked toe, help the runner with heel pain, treat a sprained ankle, fix a broken bone, or treat the stubborn, infected ingrown toenail. But podiatrists also preserve toes, feet and limbs through their tireless work with wound care, amputation prevention and limb salvage.

The Circle of Friends program honored 137 people in May. Circle of Friends allows grateful patients to make a donation in honor of the physicians, nurses, caregivers and others who have made a difference during their time at Cedars-Sinai. When a gift is made, the person being honored receives a custom lapel pin and a letter of acknowledgement.

Scott Weingarten, MD, has been appointed to the new position of senior vice president and chief clinical transformation officer. "This new position reflects our commitment to achieve the same best-in-class performance in clinical efficiency throughout the health system, as we have demonstrated in quality and safety," said Thomas M. Priselac, president and CEO.